Feverfew, known botanically as Tanacetum parthenium, is a traditional medicinal herb with a rich history of use for inflammatory conditions. This plant, a member of the daisy family, is most commonly sought today for its potential in managing headaches, particularly for prophylactic use against migraines. The therapeutic benefit is largely attributed to compounds like parthenolide, a sesquiterpene lactone found predominantly in the leaves and flowers. Creating a homemade tincture allows for a potent, shelf-stable preparation that concentrates these beneficial plant chemicals.
Essential Components of a Tincture
A tincture is an extraction where a liquid solvent, or “menstruum,” draws out and preserves active compounds from the plant material. Equipment needed includes clean, airtight glass jars, measuring tools, and labels. While non-alcohol solvents like vegetable glycerin (to create a glycerite) or apple cider vinegar can be used, alcohol is the most efficient solvent for extracting lipophilic compounds like parthenolide.
Alcohol concentration is measured in “proof,” which is double the alcohol percentage (e.g., 80-proof is 40% alcohol by volume, or ABV). For dried feverfew, 50% ABV (100 proof) is often recommended. Fresh feverfew, due to its higher water content, requires a higher concentration, such as 80% ABV. This higher alcohol content helps offset the water naturally present in fresh plant matter, ensuring both effective extraction and a long shelf life.
Preparing the Feverfew Herb
The therapeutic parts are the leaves and flowers, which should be harvested just before or during the flowering stage. The choice between fresh or dried material influences the necessary ratios and solvent strength. Dried herb is more concentrated and consistent since the water has been removed.
For fresh material, the standard ratio is 1 part herb to 2 parts solvent by weight (1:2), and the jar should be loosely packed three-quarters full. Dried material requires a higher solvent ratio, commonly 1 part herb to 5 parts solvent (1:5), and the jar should only be filled about one-third of the way. Regardless of the form, the material should be cleaned and coarsely cut to increase the surface area before combining with the menstruum.
Step-by-Step Tincture Creation
The first step involves combining the prepared feverfew and the chosen solvent in the clean glass jar. If using fresh herb, pack the jar before pouring the alcohol over it until the material is completely submerged. For dried herbs, place the measured material in the jar and cover it with the solvent, ensuring all particles are below the liquid line. Leave a small amount of headspace for easy shaking.
Once sealed, the jar must be clearly labeled with the date, the herb name, the part used, and the alcohol concentration. Place the sealed jar in a cool, dark location, such as a cupboard, away from direct sunlight and heat.
The maceration period, during which the compounds are extracted, typically lasts for four to six weeks. During this time, the jar should be vigorously shaken daily or at least regularly. Shaking redistributes the plant material and solvent, promoting a more thorough extraction.
Strain, Store, and Proper Usage
After maceration, strain the liquid to separate the finished tincture from the spent plant material. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter. Squeeze the remaining plant material firmly to extract all the liquid, as this final press is highly concentrated.
Transfer the resulting clear liquid immediately into dark glass dropper bottles to protect it from light degradation. Label the finished bottles again with the contents, date, and concentration. Alcohol-based tinctures stored properly in a cool, dark place can maintain potency for five years or more.
The general starting dosage is small, such as five drops, which can be increased as needed and taken diluted in water or juice. Feverfew is typically used preventatively to reduce headache frequency, rather than as an acute treatment.
Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (including daisies and ragweed) should avoid feverfew. Because the herb may slow blood clotting, it is a concern for those taking anticoagulant medications and must be discontinued at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery. Feverfew should not be used during pregnancy, as it may stimulate uterine contractions.